Practice question

What should you do if someone is tailgating you?

  1. Speed up to get away
  2. Change lanes or slowly reduce speed to encourage passing
  3. Brake suddenly
  4. Ignore them

Answer: B — Change lanes or slowly reduce speed to encourage passing

When someone is tailgating you, the best response is to change lanes or slowly reduce your speed to encourage them to pass. This action helps to create a safer driving environment for both you and the tailgating driver. By allowing them to overtake you, you reduce the risk of a rear-end collision, which could occur if you suddenly need to brake or if the tailgater misjudges the distance. Reducing speed gradually can also signal to the tailgater that they are too close, and it gives them the opportunity to make a safe decision to pass. Changing lanes is effective because it removes the tailgater from your immediate vicinity, allowing you to continue driving safely and at your own pace without the pressure of someone closely following you. This approach not only ensures your safety but also minimizes potential conflicts on the road.

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